Who Eats Chestnuts Globally and The Exciting Growth Potential in the U.S.

When you think of chestnuts, what comes to mind? Perhaps a cozy image of “chestnuts roasting on an open fire.” While this tradition is beloved, it barely scratches the surface of the global significance of the chestnut. Across the world, chestnuts are much more than a seasonal treat—they’re a dietary staple, cultural treasure, and culinary inspiration.

The Global Chestnut Landscape

In countries like China, Italy, South Korea, and Turkey, chestnuts are woven into the fabric of everyday life. China leads global production, growing over 80% of the world’s chestnuts, which are roasted, steamed, ground into flour, or incorporated into savory and sweet dishes. Italy is renowned for its chestnut flour, used in everything from pasta to polenta, while Korean street markets come alive with the enticing aroma of freshly roasted chestnuts in winter.

Did you know? China is the largest consumer of chestnuts worldwide, consuming almost two million metric tons annually. Chestnuts are a multi-billion dollar industry. Will we catch up in the United States? Many established and new chestnut growers are working to provide communities with freshly grown chestnuts, so we need fewer imported products. The industry is expected to grow by over an additional billion USD by 2035; much of this increase may be in the US.

The versatility of chestnuts is astounding. In Mediterranean regions, they replace grains in soups and stews, while in Japan, chestnut rice (kuri-gohan) is a comforting fall classic. These nations recognize chestnuts as a nutritious, gluten-free carbohydrate source high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Chestnuts in the U.S.: Untapped Potential

In contrast, chestnuts remain a niche crop in the United States, primarily seen as a seasonal novelty. However, this perception is shifting as more people discover their benefits and versatility. The growing emphasis on plant-based eating, gluten-free diets, and sustainable farming practices creates an exciting opportunity for chestnuts to gain popularity in American kitchens.

Consumers are increasingly drawn to nutritious and eco-friendly foods. Chestnuts, with their low-fat content and minimal environmental footprint compared to other nuts, align perfectly with these values. As awareness grows, so too does the potential for a chestnut renaissance in the U.S.

What’s Driving the Change?

Several factors are paving the way for chestnuts to flourish in the U.S.:

1. Cultural Influence: As Americans embrace global cuisines, dishes featuring chestnuts are finding their way onto restaurant menus and into home kitchens.
2. Sustainability: Chestnut trees are a perennial crop that requires less intervention than annual grains, making them an eco-friendly choice for farmers and consumers.
3. Health Trends: The rise of gluten-free and plant-based diets has put chestnuts on the radar of health-conscious eaters.
4. Innovation in Farming: Chestnut orchards, like those at United Chestnuts, invest in hybrid varieties and share knowledge to improve accessibility and quality.

Imagine a day!

This week, we posted a neat video on our United Chestnuts Community Facebook page. Consider joining the conversation there! Link to video. Processing chestnuts! https://www.facebook.com/reel/1150832173140221

For those curious about the world of chestnuts—whether you’re a foodie, farmer, or sustainability advocate—the chestnut community in the U.S. is blossoming. At United Chestnuts, we’re dedicated to helping this movement grow, sharing the nuts and the stories, resources, and connections that make this crop so special.

A Growing Community of Chestnut Enthusiasts

One way we do this is through our podcast, Branching Out: Growing Together, where we explore topics ranging from sustainable agriculture to chestnut culinary tips. It’s an excellent resource for anyone looking to understand the opportunities and challenges of this promising crop. The podcast is on our website, YouTube, Spotify, Audible, and iHeart Radio.

The Future is Bright—and Nutty

As awareness grows, so does the potential for chestnuts to become a staple in American pantries. Whether you’re looking to expand your menu, grow a more sustainable crop, or simply try something new, chestnuts are poised to offer something extraordinary.

At United Chestnuts, we’re excited to be part of this journey and invite you to explore the world of chestnuts. Together, we can help this humble nut take root in the U.S. and beyond. W

Stay tuned for more updates and insights from the farm—and don’t forget to check out our online store for chestnut seedlings, seed nuts, and other resources to help you get started.

Let’s grow together!